Shape Memory Alloys(SMA)

By Jessica Johnston, Fran D’Argenio, Becky Martin.

What Are Shape Memory Alloys?

An alloy (a solution of two or more elements in a metallic matrix) that remembers its

cold, forged shape and returns to it after having heat

applied to it.

Examples of Shape Metal Alloys Are…

• Copper-Aluminium-Nickel• Copper-Zinc-Aluminium• Iron-Manganese-Silicon

Uses of Shape Metal Alloys Include…• Dental Braces• Tweezers• Naval and Military Aircraft• Safety Valves and Fire Sprinklers• Spectacle Frames• Deep fryers• Underwire Bras• Engine Mounts• Fasteners, Seals, Connectors and Clamps• Mobile Telephone Anntenaes

History of Shape Metal Alloys

The first shape metal alloy was discovered in 1932.

However, it wasn’t until the 1960s that the nickel-titanium SMAs were

discovered by Buehler.His discovery formed the basis of the

first commercial SMA.